Tampa Tomato Toss

It’s a Toss-Up... and Tampa Wins!

The Tampa Tomato Toss is sunshine in a bowl—bursting with ripe, juicy tomatoes, crisp local produce, and citrusy brightness that mirrors the Gulf breeze. It’s a nod to Tampa’s year-round growing season and its love for bold, uncomplicated flavors. From backyard gardens in Seminole Heights to farmers markets in Hyde Park, this dish celebrates the city’s fresh, colorful bounty with every bite—light, lively, and unmistakably Tampa.

Serves approximately 4 to 6 people

Ingredients:

• 1-½ to 2 Pounds Heirloom Tomatoes of different color and variety

• Kosher Salt

• 1 Small Red Onion, Sliced

• 1 Clove Garlic, Minced

• 1 Tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar

• 3 Tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil

• 1 pinch Dried Oregano, Ground In Your Palm

• Fresh Cracked Black Pepper, To Taste

• 1-½ oz mozzarella cheese

• Mint leaves (amount to your taste)

• Mixed Greens (amount to your taste)

 

Preparation:

 

1. Wash and remove stems of tomatoes.

2. Slice tomatoes into halves, quarters or eighths depending on the size of the tomato and toss into a colander set over a large bowl.

3. Generously sprinkle kosher salt over tomatoes, gently toss and let sit for 20 minutes.

4. The salt not only removes some extra water from the tomatoes but also seasons them nicely.

5. In another bowl combine the sliced red onions, garlic and mozzarella. In a measuring cup, combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil and oregano. Whisk until combined and pour over salted tomatoes.

6. Add mixed greens, mint leaves and toss.

Season with fresh cracked black pepper and serve!

Note: This can also be chilled until ready to serve.